Duke Health has been named the 2029 World University Games Partner of the Year for 2025, recognizing its deep commitment, leadership, and early investment in supporting the upcoming global event. Although Duke University Hospital is consistently ranked as the #1 hospital in North Carolina by major national rating systems, its Partner of the Year selection stems not from accolades but from its proactive engagement and extensive contributions to Games planning under the leadership of former CEO Craig Albanese.
Duke Health is already preparing to provide physician and support staff coverage for athletes competing across the Triangle—not just on Duke’s campus, but at multiple venues and training sites throughout the region. The health system has also offered tangible operational support by furnishing the Local Organizing Committee’s expanded office spaces with high‑quality, gently used furniture, thanks to the assistance of Monte Brown, former Vice President for Administration.
A key pillar of Duke Health’s involvement is its leadership in shaping the Medical Services Solution for the 2029 FISU Games. Brown will chair the Games Medical Services Committee, supported by Dr. Ned Amendola, Duke Health’s Chief Medical Officer and Sports Medicine Division Chief in Orthopaedic Surgery. Together, they are working to assemble leading hospital systems statewide to provide comprehensive medical coverage for more than 10,000 athletes across competition, warm‑up, training, and Athlete Village locations. Both Brown’s recent participation in the 2025 World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, and Amendola’s prior Games experience further elevate the planning process.
According to 2029 FISU Games CEO Hill Carrow, the Partner of the Year honor recognizes organizations that are “all‑in”—invested, collaborative, creative, and committed to elevating the Games for athletes and fans alike. Duke Health’s forward‑thinking approach, extensive service, and genuine partnership embody these values.
Congratulations to Duke Health on this well‑deserved recognition and for setting a high standard of leadership on the road to the 2029 World University Games.